Best Places to visit in Sikkim

Best Places to Visit in Sikkim: A Complete Travel Guide

. Here you will be able to feel the pressure of Buddhist culture and TBTN culture, you will enjoy a different spiritual experience in the Buddhist monastery. Now, the hospitality of the people will attract you to travel to this hilly state again and again. The state of Sikkim is a right address for people who love to travel. Here, as you enjoy the beauty of nature, there is a lot for those who love adventure. In this blog, we will tell you all the information you need for your trip in this guide, such as the best places to visit in Sikkim, how to get to Sikkim from your destination, what to eat, what to do and what not to do, and much more.

Why Visit Sikkim?

Before we talk about the best places in Sikkim, let's talk about why you should visit Sikkim and what should be on your visit list. The untouched snow-capped and natural sights of the Himalayas Peaceful Buddhist monastery and spiritual environment Experience thrilling options like trekking, river rafting, paragliding Experience the hospitality of Sikkimese people and enjoy all the local delicacies.

Top 10 Best Places to Visit in Sikkim

Let's know about all the best places in Sikkim that you shouldn't miss from your travel list.

Gangtok – The Lively Capital

The name of the capital of Sikkim is Gangtok. This city is called the heart of Sikkim. The song gives a different feeling to the mind with the breathtaking view of Kanchenjunga. Mag Marg, Ganeshtok, Hummantok and many more give Gangtok a place in the list of complete and perfect balance and clean hill towns. gantok is a main palce wahre you conect al bast palce to visit in Sikkim.

Highlights:

• Ropeway ride with city views
• Tashi View Point
• Hanuman Tok & Ganesh Tok
• Enchey Monastery

Best Time: March to June, September to November

Pro Tip: You can easily find good hotels and places to eat in M G Marg. If you stay in a hotel in M G Marg, it will also be convenient for you to do marketing.

Tsomgo Lake – The Frozen Jewel

Samgo Lake is located at an altitude of 12,310 feet, formed by glaciers in the lap of the Himalayas. Samgo Lake is located 40 kilometers from Gangtok. A permit is required to visit Samgo Lake, which you have to obtain from Gangtok. Samgo Lake is completely covered with a blanket of snow during winter, which makes it a unique sight to see.

Things to Do:

• Yak rides
• Visit nearby Baba Mandir
• Enjoy snow (in winter)

Best Time:

April to May and October to December Note: You’ll need a permit to visit.

Nathula Pass – Gateway to Tibet

Nathula Pass is the Indo-China border gate which was known as a part of the Silk Route in ancient times. Nathula Pass is located at an altitude of 14,000 feet above sea level. Nathula Pass is known for its patriotic history and breathtaking hilly scenery. Even to go to Nathula Pass, a permit is required. One of the Best palces to visit in Sikkim

Don’t Miss:

• Border gates and war memorial
• Indo-China trade market (seasonal)

Closed on:

Mondays and Tuesdays Permit:

Mandatory for Indian nationals

Lachung & Yumthang Valley – Valley of Flowers

Lachung is a hill village in North Sikkim which is the gateway to the Yumthang Valley. Yumthang Valley is famous for its beautiful views of the mountains and its variety of flowers. Yumthang Valley is known as the Valley of Flowers. During spring, this valley takes on a different look due to its blossoming flowers.

Must be visit:

• Yumthang Valley
• Hot springs
• Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary

Best Time:

April to June for flowers, December to February for snow

Lachen & Gurudongmar Lake – A Sacred Paradise

Another best village in North Sikkim is Lachen, from this Lachen you have to go to Gurudangmar Lake which is one of the highest lakes in the world. Gurudangmar Lake is located at an altitude of 17800 feet above sea level, its snowy view in winter gives a different feeling of satisfaction in the mind. This lake is sung as a very holy place for the people of Buddhists and Sikh communities.

Highlights:

• Sunrise at Gurudongmar Lake
• Snow-capped peaks and cold desert terrain

Important: If you have any respiratory problems, you should consult a doctor, as this lake is located in the high altitude and you should carry oxygen cylinders with you, which you can collect from the local area.

Zuluk – The Zigzag Wonder

The most popular place in East Sikkim is Juluk, Juluk is famous for its zigzag road, which has 32 bends, which is a must-see for those who love to do Brahmin rituals on the road. This road is part of the Silk Route and its beautiful scenery is breathtaking.

What to do:

Drive along the switchbacks Visit Thambi Viewpoint Spot Himalayan wildlife

Best Time:

August to September (flowers), January to March (snow)

Pelling – Views and Vibes

Pelling is located in West Sikkim, Pelling is famous for its peaceful environment and the beautiful view of Kanchenjunga. It is home to Sikkim's oldest Buddhist monastery and sky walk and Khecheopalri Lake.

Places must be visit:

• Pemayangtse Monastery
• Skywalk & Chenrezig Statue
• Rabdentse Palace Ruins

Best Time:

October to May

Ravangla – Peace in the Mountains

Rabangla is a bustling town located in West Sikkim. Rabangla is known for its beautiful natural views and spirituality. Now, its popular tourist attractions include Buddha Park, Bone Monastery, Ralong Monastery, Menam Hill and many more.

Don’t Miss:

• Ralong Hot Springs:
• Temi Tea Estate:
• Kewzing Village:
•  Rayong Sunrise View Point

Best Time: March to June and September to November

Namchi – Cultural Capital of Sikkim

Namchi is a bustling town in West Sikkim which is famous for its Char Dham. Here you will find peace of mind and spiritual experience. Namchi is located 78 km from Gangtok and is situated at an altitude of 5500 feet above sea level. Places to Visit:

• Char Dham (replicas of India’s four pilgrimage sites)
• Samdruptse Hill and Statue
• Sai Mandir

Yuksom – The Trekker’s Gateway

Yukshma is a historical place in Sikkim, Yukshma is known as a religious and cultural place for the Bhutia community living in Sikkim. Yukshma was the first capital of Sikkim which was established in 1642 AD. The famous Jangari and Gochala treks start from Yukshma. What to Explore:

• Dubdi Monastery (oldest in Sikkim)
• Norbugang Coronation Throne
• Nature walks and peaceful stays

Best Places to Visit in Sikkim Offbeat Gems 

Want to do something a little different from the usual travel? Then visit the offbeat places of Sikkim.

Dzongu – The Hidden Sanctuary of the Lepchas

If you want some peace and quiet from the hustle and bustle of people, crowds, traffic noise, and busy life, then you can escape to Dzongu in North Sikkim. You won't find many tourists in Dzoungu, it is a protected place. Dzongu is home to the Lepcha community, the original inhabitants of Sikkim, and is located a few hours away from Mangaon. Why Visit Dzongu? Going to the dzongu feels like you have reached the past. The peaceful atmosphere here makes it seem like the village is sleeping, the beautiful environment here, the sound of hope rising from the waterfall and the soothing touch of the mountains while passing through the Julanta Bridge, creates a different feeling that makes the mind feel peaceful and content.   You will not find any hotels or resorts and crowds of people here, what you will find is peace which is the main attraction here. There are some homestays run by the Lepcha community families whose hospitality and their cooked food and real stories will make you feel special.

Things to Do in Dzongu

Village Walks & Cultural Immersion: Here you can visit the surrounding villages, talk to the people of the Lepcha community here and learn about their lifestyle, culture, and history. Their friendly behavior will give you a different feeling of experience. Hot Springs & Waterfalls: You can trek to Lingjia Falls, which is still hidden by nature, and you can also bathe in the warm spring water here to refresh your mind and body. Sacred Caves & Monasteries: Dzonghu is a spiritual place, associated with the Buddhist guru Padmasambhava. Bird Watching & Nature Trails: Dzongu is an ideal place for bird lovers, where you can see various species of Himalayan birds and butterflies. Disconnect to Reconnect: There is no mobile signal here, so you will get the opportunity to detox from the digital world, which will make it easier for you to refresh. Best Time to Visit Dzongu

• Spring (March to May) – Lush greenery and blooming flowers
• Autumn (September to November) – Clear skies and perfect for hiking

Permit Required

Dzongkha is a restricted area so if you want to stay here you will need to get a Inner Line  Permit (LLP). However, this homestay is managed by the owner or local tour agent.

Borong – Hot springs and birdwatching

Barang is a village in South Sikkim which is blessed with natural beauty and peaceful environment. The magnificent view of the Himalayas in Barang fascinates the people, the gardens here add a different dimension to this place.

Why Visit Borong?

This village is ideal for those who want to escape the pollution and hustle and bustle of the city for a few days and seek pure air and oxygen. The warm spring water of Barang, which is believed to have medicinal properties, will help you refresh your body. The natural scenery and the abundance of Himalayan birds here will give you a different feeling.